Journal of Medical Surgical Nursing Practice and Research

Comprehensive Management of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Nursing Perspective

Gowthami B. N — 2026-05-04

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe X-linked recessive neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration resulting from the absence of dystrophin, primarily affecting male children and leading to loss of ambulation, respiratory failure, cardiomyopathy, and reduced life expectancy. The complex and multisystem nature of the disease necessitates a comprehensive and coordinated approach to management. This review aims to provide an in-depth understanding of DMD with a particular emphasis on multidisciplinary management and the integral role of nursing care. A narrative review methodology was adopted, synthesizing evidence from clinical guidelines, standard textbooks, and recent advancements in therapeutic interventions. Current management strategies include corticosteroid therapy, respiratory support, cardiac care, rehabilitation, and emerging genetic therapies such as exon-skipping and gene therapy, which offer promising avenues for disease modification. Despite these advancements, treatment remains largely supportive, with a strong focus on symptom management and prevention of complications. Nursing care plays a pivotal role in continuous assessment, early detection of complications, coordination of multidisciplinary services, patient and caregiver education, and provision of psychosocial support. Holistic nursing interventions significantly contribute to improving functional outcomes and enhancing quality of life. Although a definitive cure remains unavailable, ongoing advancements in genetic therapies and integrated care models hold potential for transforming disease outcomes. Strengthening nursing involvement and adopting a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach are essential for optimizing long-term care and improving the overall well-being of individuals with DMD.

Evidence-Based Infection Control Practices in Critical Care Units: A Systematic Review of Nursing Interventions

Ishfaq Ahmad Sheikh — 2026-05-08

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a major concern in critical care units (CCUs), where invasive procedures, prolonged hospitalization, and compromised immunity increase infection risk. These infections contribute to higher morbidity, mortality, healthcare costs, and antimicrobial resistance. Nurses play a crucial role in infection prevention due to their continuous patient care responsibilities, yet adherence to established guidelines remains inconsistent.

Methods: This study was conducted as a systematic review to synthesize evidence on infection control practices in critical care units, with a specific focus on nursing-led interventions. Relevant literature, including WHO and CDC guidelines and peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025, was systematically analyzed based on predefined inclusion criteria.

Results: Key infection control strategies identified include effective hand hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to aseptic techniques, environmental cleaning, and infection surveillance. Hand hygiene was consistently reported as the most effective intervention. Nurse-led education, standardized protocols, and institutional support were found to significantly improve compliance and reduce infection rates.

Conclusion: Evidence-based nursing practices are essential for reducing HAIs in CCUs. Strengthening education, ensuring the availability of resources, and promoting institutional support can enhance infection prevention outcomes. Integrating structured protocols into routine care and improving compliance mechanisms are critical for improving patient safety and healthcare quality.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum with Antepartum Haemorrhage in a 34-Year-Old Multigravida: A Comprehensive Obstetric Case Study

Jasbir Kaur — 2026-06-29

Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) is a significant obstetric condition defined by aberrant placental adhesion to the uterine wall caused by partial or complete lack of the decidua basalis. It is one of the most common causes of severe obstetric haemorrhage and contributes considerably to maternal morbidity and mortality globally. PAS has become more common in recent decades, owing primarily to an increase in caesarean section deliveries. Early detection and interdisciplinary treatment are critical for better maternal and newborn outcomes. This case study features a 34-year-old multigravida woman who was admitted at 29 weeks and 3 days of gestation with painless vaginal bleeding that suggested antepartum haemorrhage. The patient had undergone one previous lower segment caesarean section. Ultrasonography and colour Doppler imaging revealed features consistent with the placenta accreta spectrum, such as placental lacunae, loss of the retroplacental hypoechoic zone, and enhanced placental vascularity. The patient was treated conservatively, with close maternal and foetal monitoring, blood transfusion preparation, and multidisciplinary care provided by obstetricians, anaesthesiologists, neonatologists, nursing experts, and blood bank workers. The example emphasizes the necessity of prenatal diagnosis, close monitoring, early intervention, and specialist nursing care in managing high-risk pregnancies complicated with PAS. Early detection allowed for the extension of pregnancy while maintaining maternal and foetal stability. This paper emphasizes the critical role of obstetric nurses in monitoring, counselling, emergency readiness, and delivering comprehensive care to women with obstetric difficulties.